SkillsUSA launches biotech competition

PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island chapter of SkillsUSA is now accepting student applications from select high schools to compete in the state’s “first-ever” biotech competition.

The contest, which was designed by local science educators, challenges students to showcase their understanding and ability to perform bioscientific tests, such as preparing and analyzing DNA samples.

The career and technical organization, whose goal is to “ensure America has a skilled workforce,” is working with the nonprofit Tech Collective as well as the University of Rhode Island Providence Biotechnology Center to stage the program, slated to be held on March 9 at URI’s Feinstein Campus from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

The contest is inviting up to five students from seven high schools (up to 40 total) to participate. The high schools include Burrillville High School, Coventry High School, Davies Career-Tech High School, Juanita Sanchez High School, Woonsocket Area Career and Technical Center, Warwick Veterans Memorial High School and Mt. Hope High School.

Contest sponsors include Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc. and the R.I. Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research Student. Winners will be announced at a recognition ceremony on March 27, 2013 at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Providence.

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